GUYTON — For Chloe Turner, the game of softball is about more than just hitting, catching and throwing the ball. She loves everything about it — from simply stepping onto the diamond to being a leader.

“When I start a game and step on the field, and feel the dirt — I just love the feeling of playing,” Turner said. “It makes me happy.”

Last year as a sophomore, she paced South Effingham in RBI (25), hits (31) and runs (17). 

“(I) practice in the cages nonstop,” Turner said. “Whenever I get a break, I try to go hit anywhere. I try to get as much practice in as I can.”

A two-year varsity player, Turner expects another productive year at the plate.

“This year, my goal is to lead the team in the offensive realm,” she said.

This year’s team, under new head coach Jessica Evans, was assembled last week and Turner is thrilled about the level of skill it has shown so far.

“I am very excited,” she said. “I feel like this year we are going to have great talent. The freshmen class is great.”

The Lady Mustangs’ elevation to Region 2-AAAAAA means an opportunity for her to test her skills against better competition.

“I always love a good competition, especially since the pitching is going to be more challenging,” she said.

Turner, who plays second base, says staying in communication with her coach is what helps her stay mentally engaged. 

“I talk to my coach and we practice and talk about the season and what our goals are for this team,” Turner said. “It gets me hyped up and excited about this year.”

The Lady Mustangs are set to open the season Aug. 6 — the day after school starts — at home against Islands.